Guwahati: Two Kuki community organisations have jointly appealed to residents across several districts of Manipur to celebrate Diwali without firecrackers on November 9, citing security concerns, the psychological impact of recent violence and potential health and fire hazards.
The Kuki Youth Organization (KYO) of Leimakhong Block and the United Kuki Youth Council (UKYC) of Churachandpur urged people to avoid bursting firecrackers, clarifying that the appeal was intended to protect vulnerable residents rather than restrict the festival celebrations.
The organisations warned that sudden explosions could be mistaken for gunfire or bomb blasts, triggering panic in areas still recovering from violence and displacement.
Security and psychological concerns
The two organisations said many residents, particularly children and elderly people, continue to experience psychological distress following the recent violence.
They expressed concern that loud firecracker sounds could revive traumatic memories and cause anxiety, fear and sleeplessness among affected residents.
The KYO also pointed to the sensitive security situation, stressing that sounds considered festive by some could cause distress to others.
Health and fire safety risks
The UKYC raised concerns about the health hazards associated with firecracker smoke, warning that toxic emissions could further deteriorate air quality.
It said pregnant women, infants, elderly people and those suffering from existing illnesses were particularly vulnerable. The council also noted that Churachandpur town was already facing widespread respiratory problems and limited emergency medical facilities.
According to the organisation, heavy pollution during the celebrations could trigger asthma attacks, heart-related complications and eye irritation.
The groups also highlighted the risk of accidental fires in densely populated residential areas, where houses are often built using highly inflammable materials such as timber and tin.
The UKYC warned that even a stray spark could cause a major fire, particularly in localities with limited firefighting infrastructure.
The organisations further pointed to the impact of firecracker noise on domestic animals and livestock. They said the resulting smoke could also leave residential areas, schools and churches covered in haze.
UKYC calls for ban on firecracker sales
To strengthen compliance, the UKYC called for a complete ban on the sale of firecrackers and urged shopkeepers to remove such products from their shelves.
The council also appealed to parents to explain the reasons behind the restriction to their children and encouraged local youth to lead the campaign by promoting light-based celebrations instead of fireworks.
It added that further restrictions might be necessary if the security situation deteriorated, while urging residents to cooperate voluntarily in the interest of public safety.
Despite the appeal, both organisations extended Diwali greetings to the community and encouraged people to celebrate the festival with traditional lamps, prayers, sweets and family gatherings.
They said the celebrations should promote peace and unity, rather than noise and disturbance.